The Westport Country Playhouse today announced that Tony, Emmy, and two-time Golden Globe nominee Matthew Morrison will headline its 2017 fundraising gala on Saturday, Sept. 9.
Matthew Morrison: headlines Saturday benefit. Contributed photo
New this year will be the Gala’s move to Saturday evening instead of Monday night as in past seasons. The Gala’s theme, “Moonlight Over Venice,” is a nod to the Playhouse’s autumn production of “Romeo and Juliet”.
The 2017 Playhouse Leadership Award will be presented to longtime Playhouse supporter Ann Sheffer of Westport and Palm Springs, California.
“Ann has given incalculably to the Playhouse during important decades of its long history,” said Mark Lamos, Playhouse artistic director.
“She has expressed her love for this theater through extraordinarily generous support, both financial and spiritual. We have been grateful to her for all she’s done, and it’s a privilege for us all to honor Ann at our 2017 gala.”
Gala headliner Morrison is a versatile actor who is recognized for his work on stage and on screen. He most recently starred as “J.M. Barrie” in the Broadway musical, “Finding Neverland.”
A cocktail party will begin at 5:45 p.m., followed by a 7 p.m. presentation of the Playhouse Leadership Award to Sheffer, and 7:15 p.m. performance by Morrison, an announcement said.
Dinner will be at 8:30 p.m. A silent auction will be on going throughout the evening.
For more Gala information or ticket purchases, contact Aline O’Connor, associate director of development, at 203-571-1138, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
